Be Prepared for Power Outages.
On average, a standby generator can last 20 to 30 years and might only operate as little as 26 hours a year (based on weekly low-speed routine exercises and no outages) or several hundreds of hours a year depending on the duration of power outages.
Don’t skip the routine maintenance on your backup generator – it’s the entire reason you purchased it in the first place. How can you be sure it will start and provide the power you need the next your power is out?
Preventative Maintenance (PM) Programs for Standby Generators
Just like any other engine, standby generators need regular maintenance too – your car requires an oil change every 3 months (or 3,000 miles) and most standby generators require an oil change every 2 years (or 200 hours of usage).
Your standby generator comes with a maintenance kit; everything you need to make sure it passes the test. Your owner’s manual contains information that allows peak performance from your generator.
Weekly Checklist
Run the generator (typically no-load, automatic transfer switch exercise cycle).
Verify that the unit ran and has no alarms or warnings.
Ensure adequate fuel levels.
Ensure that the generator is in “Auto” mode, for automatic startup.
Check that the circuit breaker is closed.
Make sure there are no fluid leaks.
Monthly Checklist
Check fluid levels when the engine is cool.
Make sure surrounding area is clean & debris free.
Check the battery charger.
Check for corrosion on battery terminals or wiring.
Bi-Annual: (Schedule with a certified technician.)
Inspect the enclosure – make sure there aren’t rodents making homes.
Check the battery electrolyte level and specific gravity.
Check battery cables and connections.
Inspect drive belts.
Inspect the coolant heater.
Check coolant lines and connections.
Check for oil leaks and inspect lubrication system hoses and connectors.
Check for fuel leaks and inspect fuel system hoses and connectors.
Inspect the exhaust system, muffler and exhaust pipe.
Check and clean air cleaner units.
Inspect air induction piping and connections.
Inspect the DC electrical system, control panel and accessories.
Inspect the AC wiring and accessories.
Annual: (Schedule with a certified technician.)
Change oil and filter.
Change the fuel filter.
Change the air filter.
Clean the crankcase breather.
Change spark plugs.
Check coolant concentration.
Flush the cooling system (as needed).
Perform load bank testing.
Fuel testing & reconditioning (diesel-fueled units only).
Remove water from fuel tank (diesel-fueled units only).
Get Our Infographic
Download a PDF of our infographic by clicking the button now or schedule your generator maintenance with J&J Gas Service at (386) 294-1801.
We just purchased a generator for our residence. I loved your weekly checklist to ensure that the generator will continue to run at its best. I also loved your monthly checklist for fluid levels and making sure it is running cleanly. I am sure that a generator preventive maintenance service can give more specific suggestions on a personal basis.
Thanks for sharing this. It’s definitely very important to perform routine maintenance on your generators. With proper maintenance, how long do you think power generators will last?
Our home just acquired a generator. Your weekly checklist was a great idea to make sure the generator keeps performing at its peak. Your monthly checklist for fluid levels and ensuring a clean machine was also much appreciated. I’m confident a generator preventative maintenance service can offer more detailed recommendations.